In the sprawling digital soundscape of Spotify, playlists like Lo-Fi Hip Hop Beats, Ambient Chill, and their ilk have become cultural fixtures, soundtracking study sessions, coffee shop vibes, and late-night introspection. But a closer look reveals an unsettling truth: these playlists aren’t always filled with the work of real, independent artists. Instead, they’re often padded with cheap, anonymous tracks designed to mimic authentic music while costing Spotify next to nothing. This is the story of how Spotify, a platform once hailed as a democratizing force for musicians, has become its own musician—churning out soulless “audio wallpaper” at the expense of genuine creators.
